Greener Laundry: Simple Tips for a More Sustainable Routine

By Ali Malcolm

Your laundry hamper is an easy place to build greener habits. Laundry has a significant environmental footprint: water and energy use, detergent chemicals, packaging waste, and microplastics from synthetic fabrics collectively contribute to a substantial impact. 

The good news is that it’s relatively easy to make small changes to your laundry routine that can significantly reduce waste, conserve resources, and even extend the life of your clothes. 

Here are some simple ways to make your laundry habits more sustainable.

Wash less often

The most eco-friendly load of laundry is the one you don’t do. Many items don’t need to be washed after every wear, especially jeans, sweaters, jackets, and blouses. Spot clean marks, air out clothes, and wear items a few times before washing. This cuts your utility bill and lowers your footprint while helping clothes last longer.

If you’re a busy household, consider limiting your laundry day to once a week, which also means you’ll likely have fuller loads (see the tip below).

Wash full loads…

Running your machine at half capacity wastes water and energy. Wait until you have a full load before starting a cycle. Be careful, however, not to overstuff the drum as clothes need room to move to get properly clean. If you must wash a smaller load, adjust the settings to use less water.

…on shorter cycles

Washing clothes on a shorter cycle saves energy, water, and time, while still getting most everyday laundry clean. Unless garments are heavily soiled, a fast wash is usually sufficient. Many washers have a “quick wash” cycle—try out yours on your next load.

Use cold water

Heating water accounts for a significant portion of the energy used in a washing cycle. Switching to cold water combats this and also protects fabrics from shrinking or fading. Although some believe cold water doesn’t remove dirt as well, most detergents today are formulated to work effectively in cold water. 

Choose better detergent with less packaging

Conventional detergents contain harsh chemicals and phosphates that harm waterways and may be detrimental to your health. Here are better options: 

• Choose biodegradable, plant-based detergents with minimal packaging, preferably Canadian-made brands. 
• Use refill stations at a local eco-store to reduce packaging waste

• Use eco-friendly laundry strips, which eliminate plastic bottles altogether 
• DIY detergent from soapnuts: dried shells of the Sapindus mukorossi tree containing a natural soaping agent. Works for all laundry and is safe for septic systems. Find them at most natural or health stores, or in bulk at places like Bulk Barn.

Other laundry additives, like fabric softener and bleach, also have significant environmental impacts. A simple, greener alternative is to skip them entirely, or use baking soda to brighten whites and vinegar as a natural replacement for fabric softener.

Skip the dryer…

Dryers are one of the biggest energy hogs in the home. Whenever possible, sun or air-dry your clothes on a drying rack or clothesline.  In the chilly Canadian winter, consider placing your rack near an air/heat vent or in a well-ventilated area to dry your clothes more quickly. Not only does air-drying save energy, but it also reduces wear and tear on fabrics, keeping your clothes in good shape longer.

… or be dryer smart

For pieces that must be machine-dried, use wool dryer balls instead of single-use, chemical-filled drying sheets. They are reusable, help reduce static, prevent clothing from balling up, and reduce drying time. Drying at a lower temperature also reduces energy and is better for most fabrics.

Prevent microplastic pollution

Synthetic fabrics, such as polyester and nylon, shed tiny fibers, or microplastics, in the wash. These can end up in waterways and persist in ecosystems for decades. Minimize shedding by washing in cold water, using shorter and gentler cycles, and consider using a microplastic-catching filter. Even better? Opt for fabrics made from natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, wool, and silk. Learn more about the ins and outs of textile waste on our Wasteless website. 

Buy better for longevity

In the long run, sustainable laundry also means mindful clothing choices. When possible, choose natural fibers (see above) and avoid synthetic fabrics such as polyester, nylon, and those marketed as “performance”, “wrinkle-resistant”, or “sweat-wicking”. Go second-hand, avoid fast fashion, and buy durable, high-quality pieces that can handle repeated wear and washing. 

Making your laundry routine sustainable doesn’t require a complete lifestyle overhaul. Switching to cold water, consolidating laundry days, running shorter cycles, air-drying clothes, and using eco-friendly detergents are simple yet impactful changes. These steps can become habits that save money, extend the life of your wardrobe, and reduce your household’s environmental footprint.